Although parts of Connecticut are expecting temperatures in the 70s and 80s today, the state is preparing for an ice storm. After major winter storms like the massive blizzard back in February and the October nor’easter in 2011, state officials are taking preparedness very seriously.
Today kicks off a two day statewide disaster drill designed to improve state response to emergencies. The state wants to be prepared for the next winter season and is working closely with utility companies, municipalities and state agencies to make plans now.
Connecticut Light & Power will conduct drills Thursday, during which emergency crews will demonstrate what they do during an ice storm. CL&P crews will demonstrate the removal of electrical hazards from telephone, cable wires, and trees. The crews will also test a set of protocols that deal with storm response and recovery.
Additional drills will take place at emergency operations centers to simulate preparedness, response, and recovery. And efforts are underway to coordinate shelters with the American Red Cross.